Staff Interview with Jean Ben Illouz

What inspired you to work for NGO Enriquezarte?

My passion for volunteering began at 16, driving me to seek meaningful experiences locally and globally. However, I often felt inadequate compared to professionals I aimed to assist, leading me to search for an NGO offering the training and mentorship I needed. Frustratingly, I found none that met my criteria.

This experience inspired enriquezArte's creation, emphasizing addressing this gap. We developed unique “voluntraining” programs, ensuring volunteers and staff gain vital skills and knowledge for meaningful impact. Our mission empowers not only communities but also individuals like me, fostering dedicated changemakers by nurturing their potential.

I lead an organization valuing personal growth and professional development as much as community impact. It was an inspiring journey toward positive change and empowerment.

Describe a typical day at work.

At enriquezArte, our daily routine is well-structured with two shifts led by Office Managers who ensure our volunteers are organized and prepared. My role involves addressing changing priorities, responding to project needs, and welcoming new volunteers, aligning them with our values.

I also provide guidance and support to long-term volunteers, fostering their growth. Our typical day is characterized by a balance of structure, adaptability, and camaraderie, where each day brings opportunities for personal and community growth, driven by our enthusiasm and purpose.

Why do you do what you do?

My passion lies in making a meaningful impact on people's lives through personal connections. As an entrepreneur, I engage directly with partners, witnessing the real-world impact of our services, such as supporting the local food bank and aiding in social reintegration.

As a neighborhood activist, I work closely with fellow neighbors to create a better community. Being a teacher allows me to guide trainees toward a brighter future, establishing close personal connections for their growth. Ultimately, my drive is to connect, assist, and uplift people, fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and positive change, combining professionalism, leadership, and compassion.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of what I do is the welcoming interview with new volunteers. Exploring their unique histories and motivations is enriching. Guiding them into our program and integrating them with our team fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Witnessing their growth is immensely gratifying, highlighting the potential for positive change in each person.

This reinforces my belief in collective effort and our mission to impact lives. My job allows me to be part of this journey of personal and community growth, where every individual's story contributes to our shared mission's tapestry. It's a cherished privilege that fuels my unwavering commitment.

This is me in action and in person doing some hands-on training and a workshop.

How do you use your education and international background in your current role?

My educational background in business strategies, entrepreneurship, and pedagogical experiences have been instrumental in shaping my role today. While my degree in engineering provided me with valuable theoretical knowledge, it's in the real world, leading projects, NGOs, companies and teams of professionals, that I truly honed my skills in managing people and sensitivities effectively.

In my current role, this education is at the heart of what I do. Managing a diverse group of stakeholders, each with their own expectations, requires a deep understanding of organizational dynamics and interpersonal relationships. My experiences as a social entrepreneur have equipped me with the tools to navigate these complexities successfully.

Moreover, my international background has proven invaluable. We work with a diverse group of volunteers, and cultural differences arise all the time. In such cases, my international experiences allow me to act as a mediator, helping bridge gaps and foster understanding among team members.

In essence, my education and international background serve as the foundation upon which I build meaningful connections and create a harmonious community. It allows me to navigate the challenges of managing diverse expectations, facilitating cooperation, and ensuring that our mission is a unifying force for everyone involved.

What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?

In our organization, we face several challenges that are fundamental to our mission. Firstly, managing financial resources effectively requires us to employ a range of funding strategies, such as securing grants, receiving donations, and forming partnerships, all while maintaining transparency in our financial operations.

Secondly, nurturing community commitment entails active outreach, hosting events, and establishing partnerships, all with a central focus on inclusivity by involving community members in the decision-making process.

Balancing the diverse expectations of our volunteers is another challenge that we address through open and honest communication, matching their skills to specific projects, and promoting unity within our team. To adapt to the ever-evolving needs of our projects, we maintain a flexible approach and empower our team members to make informed decisions.

Our commitment to continuous training is vital, and we achieve this through regular assessments and updates, ensuring that our volunteers remain responsive in their efforts to fulfill our mission. In summary, effective communication, flexibility, and a shared commitment to our goals drive our collective efforts, fostering a harmonious and impactful environment for both our volunteers and the communities we serve.

What are some current projects you are working on?

Nou Barris Community Garden Project is a project aiming to create a collaborative and sustainable green space fostering intercultural relationships. It includes identifying underutilized areas for community gardens, gardening workshops, cooking classes, and community meetings to strengthen personal and cultural connections.

Nou Barris Cultural Exchange Fair celebrates diversity through music, dance, food, and art. This fair provides a multicultural stage for local talent and promotes local businesses and organizations as sponsors. It's an enriching event where residents can learn from and celebrate the personal and cultural narratives of their neighbors.

Nou Barris Neighborhood Storytelling Project serves as a repository of personal stories, histories, and traditions while preserving cultural heritage, this project involves recruiting volunteers to collect stories, creating an accessible online platform, organizing storytelling workshops and gatherings, and initiating collaborative art projects. It's an effort to pay homage to personal stories and strengthen personal and cultural connections within the community.

What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?

If I could whisper a message to my pre-travel self, it would start with the notion of traveling light, not only in terms of physical baggage but also in my heart and mind. I've learned that the journey becomes infinitely more enriching when we let go of preconceived notions and embrace the world with open arms.

But beyond the practicalities, there's a deeper wisdom I'd impart—a spiritual insight, if you will. It's the recognition that every voyage, every encounter, is a pilgrimage of the soul. Much like the transformative experience one finds at the place where I share my life—a haven where art, culture, and the essence of humanity intertwine, changing you forever.

These moments, often hidden away from the well-trodden tourist trails, are the spiritual gems of travel. They are found when we wander through the neighborhoods where everyday life unfolds, when we sit down with strangers who become friends, and when we savor the flavors of humble neighborhood restaurants. In these unassuming places, our souls awaken to the beauty of cultural diversity, and our hearts resonate with the stories of the people we meet.

So, the advice to my pre-travel self would be to travel light, and let your soul embark on a spiritual pilgrimage. Seek the transformative moments that will forever shape your journey, for they are the true treasures of life on the road.

And now, onto the downward facing dog yoga pose! Doing some hands-on yoga training.

What makes NGO Enriquezarte special?

What sets our organization apart and makes it truly special is our unwavering commitment to values like community, diversity, and solidarity, all within the backdrop of a neighborhood rich in immigrant culture. Nou Barris, where we call home, is a vibrant hub of diverse backgrounds and experiences, where many immigrants have found their new beginnings.

This neighborhood, while full of promise and potential, also faces the risk of exclusion for its vulnerable population. That's where we step in with our mission to bridge divides, create opportunities, and foster a sense of belonging for everyone who calls this community home.

Our commitment to diversity isn't just a checkbox on our list; it's a guiding principle. We celebrate the unique cultures, languages, and stories that weave the fabric of Nou Barris. Through our programs and initiatives, we not only acknowledge the challenges faced by our immigrant neighbors but actively work to break down barriers, ensuring that they are fully integrated into the community.

Solidarity isn't just a word for us; it's the cornerstone of everything we do. We understand that collective support and collaboration are vital for creating a more inclusive and equitable neighborhood. We're not just an organization; we're a family that stands together, supporting one another and extending a hand to those at risk of exclusion.

While other organizations may offer intriguing activities and proposals, few share our unique blend of values and our deep connection to a neighborhood brimming with immigrant culture and the potential for positive change. Our organization is more than special; it's a beacon of hope and unity for Nou Barris, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?

Selecting our organization ensures to get a homologated knowledge certified by national authorities. It's also a commitment to a shared vision of building and promoting harmonious coexistence in our community.

In our neighborhood, residents are often confronted with challenges such as limited access to essential resources, low educational levels, and social and labor exclusion. We exist to confront these challenges head-on, and what sets us apart is our unwavering belief in the power of diversity.

Rather than viewing diversity as a source of conflict or division, we see it as a unifying force with a common purpose: to share and create value as we evolve together. Our organization isn't solely focused on individual accomplishments; it's about collective growth.

We firmly believe that personal growth is interwoven with the growth of our organization. Together, we're on a journey towards positive transformation, where unity, diversity, and shared values serve as the foundation for a brighter future for everyone.

By choosing our organization, you're not only choosing personal growth but also the opportunity to connect with others, to share, learn, and make a difference. It's about the profound and mutual growth that occurs when individuals and organizations evolve hand in hand, shaping a brighter tomorrow for our community.

What hopes do you have for the future for your organization?

In the future, enriquezArte aims to be a beacon of positive change, not just in Nou Barris but as a global model for community engagement. There are seven ways we seek to accomplish this goal for our future.

1. Financial Sustainability: To ensure long-term success, the organization plans to secure diverse funding sources beyond donations and grants. This will allow for investments in programs, infrastructure, and staff, enhancing its capacity for impact.
2. Expand Impact: The primary goal is to reach and impact more Nou Barris residents, providing essential resources, educational opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
3. Global Collaboration: EnriquezArte aims to collaborate with organizations worldwide that share its values and vision. By forming international partnerships, it can exchange ideas, resources, and best practices to create a network of changemakers.
4. Empower Volunteers: The organization looks forward to volunteers' personal and professional growth, seeing them become leaders who carry enriquezArte's lessons and values into their future endeavors.
5. Innovation and Adaptability: Adapting to changing times, enriquezArte plans to remain innovative in community development, adjusting its approach and programs to meet evolving needs.
6. Perpetual Growth: The aspiration is for continual growth and evolution, where enriquezArte becomes an even stronger force for positive change, reaching new heights in impact and influence.
7. Unity and Community: Ultimately, the aim is to foster a lasting culture of collaboration and community engagement, transcending the organization's lifespan, and ensuring that people and groups continue to work together for positive change into the future.

Are there any developments with your organization that you would like to share with us?

We're excited to share some recent developments within our organization. This year, we've made significant contributions to our community, supporting events like the carnival, family gatherings, and cultural celebrations. Our summer camp was a resounding success, bringing joy to many children in our neighborhood.

We're now embarking on a new chapter with a highly dedicated team that deeply resonates with Enriquezarte's vision. Additionally, one of our passionate volunteers and her team have initiated the creation of a podcast, centered around the stories and experiences of our local volunteers. These endeavors reflect our ongoing commitment to enriching the lives of our community members and fostering meaningful connections.

What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?

My goal is to facilitate a transformative experience where participants delve into self-discovery, gaining insights into their own strengths and values. By immersing themselves in our neighborhood, they'll grasp its unique essence and challenges, fostering empathy and understanding. Through meaningful community engagement, participants will have the opportunity to contribute positively, cultivating a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Additionally, the vibrant backdrop of Barcelona will serve as a rich educational resource, offering diverse cultural perspectives and life lessons. Overall, I envision participants leaving with enriched self-awareness, a deeper connection to our community, a philanthropic spirit, and a broader understanding of the world through their encounter with Barcelona.

Dressed up, ready, and having fun out and about leading the neighborhood carnival.

What do you hope participants take away from your programs?

I hope participants take away a profound and transformative experience from our programs. Specifically, I hope they leave with:

• Personal Growth: I want participants to discover and develop their strengths, values, and potential. Through our unique "voluntraining" approach, they should gain valuable skills and insights that enhance their personal and professional lives.
• Community Connection: I aim for participants in our programs to forge deep connections with the Nou Barris neighborhood and its diverse residents. This sense of belonging should extend beyond their time with us, fostering a long-lasting commitment to community engagement.
• Empathy and Understanding: By immersing themselves in our cultural center's unique blend of cultural influences from diverse nationalities, I hope participants develop empathy and a broader perspective on societal issues. Understanding deeply the experiences of our culturally diverse community members is a vital step towards positive change.
• Purpose and Fulfillment: Through meaningful contributions to our community, participants should experience a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. Knowing they've made a tangible difference can be a life-changing experience.
• Cultural Awareness: Barcelona's vibrant cultural backdrop offers a unique opportunity for participants to broaden their cultural horizons. I hope they leave with a greater appreciation for diversity and an enriched worldview.

In essence, I want our participants to depart from enriquezArte with a deep sense of personal growth, a strong commitment to community engagement, and a broader perspective on life. This is all underpinned by the values of empathy, unity, and positive change.

How do you help support participants?

Our team plays a pivotal role in providing essential support to participants as they navigate the challenges of community living. We understand that communal life can be demanding, so our collective efforts are geared toward easing this journey and ensuring the success of our participants.

As a team, we offer companionship, providing participants with a sense of community and belonging. We're there to encourage them, address any challenges that arise, and offer solutions to make their experience as positive as possible.

One thing that is especially important for us is the belief in the journey of growth and continuous learning, rather than merely focusing on achieving predefined outcomes. We understand that every experience, including our failures, holds valuable lessons that contribute to personal and collective development. It's about being guided by the personal coach that any participant has to embrace challenges as opportunities for improvement.

As technical referents for teaching how the NGO works, we emphasize the importance of supporting one another in this learning process. We believe that through collaboration and shared experiences, we not only grow individually but also as a cohesive unit. This spirit of teamwork and mutual support is at the core of our approach, as we work together to navigate the complexities of community living and create a positive, transformative environment for participants.

Our commitment to support participants is an integral part of our organization's “reason of being”, and together, we strive to create a nurturing and transformative environment for all involved.

How is your company handling Covid protocols? What should participants know about your Covid readiness? How are you assisting participants with navigating the new travel landscape?

Even though in Barcelona, where COVID-19 protocols are no longer in place, EnriquezArte focuses on providing hand sanitation stations with alcohol and ensuring access to clean bathroom facilities to maintain hygiene standards for participants, volunteers, and partners.
Our commitment to health and well-being remains a top priority in our programs.

If you could participate on one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?

It would be really hard to choose just one of our organization's programs since all of them focus on helping each person find their own path and grow at their own pace. However, if I were to participate in one of our programs, I would choose our International School of Community Building.

This program holds a special place in our organization as it represents the culmination of our efforts to provide a comprehensive learning experience. The courses are dedicating significant time and energy to, and reflects our commitment to personal growth, technical training, and community development.

As someone who has spent years working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, I believe that immersing myself in this program as a newcomer would be an incredibly enriching experience. It would allow me to see the world through fresh eyes and engage with individuals from all over the world who are on their own unique journeys.

The School of Community Building offers a holistic approach to personal and professional development, and I would love the opportunity to explore its technical, physical, and personal training aspects. It's a chance to learn discipline, foster a deeper understanding of community dynamics, and discover how to make a positive impact on the neighborhoods we serve.

Ultimately, participating in this program is a transformative experience, both personally and professionally, and I believe it would allow me to connect with our organization's mission on a deeper level. It's a journey of growth and learning that I would eagerly embark upon to further contribute to our shared vision of positive change.

What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?

Participants often have questions related to the program's challenges, difficulties they might encounter, and the details of planned activities. In response, I maintain open and transparent communication, aiming to provide them with accurate and realistic expectations. Here's how I typically respond to these common questions:

Challenges and Difficulties: When participants inquire about this topic I offer candid insights where I emphasize that community living can present unique challenges, such as adapting to a new environment, cultural differences, and occasionally facing unexpected situations. However, I also stress that overcoming these challenges is an integral part of personal growth and the overall experience. I encourage them to view challenges as opportunities for learning and self-improvement.

Participants often seek details about the planned activities and what they can expect. In response, I provide a comprehensive overview of the program's activities, the topical week, including its goals, structure, and the specific tasks they may be involved in. I highlight the diversity of experiences they can look forward to, from community engagement to skill-building opportunities. Sharing examples of past activities and the positive impact they've had on both participants and the community reinforces the value of their involvement.

To offer a well-rounded perspective, I often share anecdotes and experiences from other volunteers who have participated in all our programs. These real-life stories help paint a vivid picture of what to expect and how previous participants have navigated challenges and embraced opportunities for growth. Hearing about the journeys of their peers can be reassuring and inspiring for new participants.

In essence, my approach revolves around honesty, transparency, and providing a holistic view of the program. By addressing concerns directly and showcasing the potential for personal development and positive change, I aim to empower participants to embark on their transformative journey with confidence and enthusiasm.

Some of the best times involve going into the great outdoors.

Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?

Traveling and immersing in new cultures is like opening a window to a world of growth and understanding, while it challenges assumptions, fosters empathy, and broadens horizons. It's a journey of self-discovery, where you question your values and adapt; you gain real-world education in history, geography, sociology, and anthropology through real-world experiences.

Travel also hones your communication skills, whether you're trying to navigate a foreign language or communicate across cultural differences, you become a better communicator. Moreover, travel often humbles you, it exposes you to different living conditions and perspectives, making you appreciate your own blessings.

Ultimately, traveling fosters a sense of global citizenship, it inspires you to engage in issues of global significance, like sustainability, social justice, and human rights. In essence, traveling abroad and immersing yourself in new cultures isn't just a journey of miles; it's a journey of the soul. It enriches your life, promotes personal growth, and contributes to a more interconnected and empathetic world.

Why do you think learning a new language is important?

Learning a new language is paramount in our globalized world. Our NGO has several classes of different languages such as Spanish, Catalán, English, French, and more. Spanish and Catalán classes are evaluated by local authorities and allow our trainees to graduate officially and be internationally recognized.

But, it transcends exams, vocabulary and grammar, enabling profound connections across cultures by being fully immersed in. This linguistic bridge fosters cross-cultural understanding, nurturing relationships with diverse perspectives. Cognitively, language acquisition enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. It exercises the brain, fostering adaptability and resourcefulness.

Proficiency in another language unlocks doors to diverse experiences, from cultural immersion to global travel, enriching personal and professional growth. It's a sought-after skill, opening career avenues in international business, diplomacy, translation, and education.

In today's interconnected world, multilingualism is a transformative journey, empowering individuals to connect, expand horizons, and embrace human diversity. Pursuing language learning holds undeniable benefits for personal and professional enrichment.

What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?

For individuals contemplating an overseas journey, here's some valuable advice drawn from EnriquezArte's ethos of cultural exploration and personal growth:

• Embrace cultural curiosity
• Plan and research
• Learn basic phrases
• Travel light
• Prioritize safety
• Cultural sensitivity
• Immerse and engage
• Flexibility
• Budget wisely
• Capture moments mindfully
• Stay healthy
• Document your journey

The EnriquezArte Team and myself believe that travel is not just about exploring new places but also about personal growth and cultural exchange. By following these pieces of advice, you can embark on a transformative journey that enriches your life and contributes to a deeper understanding of the world.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

EnriquezArte envisions meaningful travel as a profound commitment to personal growth, cultural exchange, and transcending borders. It involves stepping out of one's comfort zone to embrace new cultures and perspectives, fostering connections, and supporting mutual growth.

Recognizing issues within international education, we address problems like voluntourism, which often lacks long-term community impact. We also address the commercialization of travel experiences, emphasizing genuine cultural exchange. Additionally, we prioritize responsible and sustainable tourism practices. EnriquezArte is dedicated to promoting responsible travel, cultural sensitivity, and meaningful community engagement, ensuring travelers' journeys are personally enriching while positively contributing to the well-being and development of host communities.

What does ethical global engagement mean to you?

Ethical global engagement entails a profound commitment to responsible actions that positively impact the world. It prioritizes respecting human rights, advocating for social justice, and addressing global inequalities and discrimination.

Environmental sustainability is integral, emphasizing mindful ecological choices in travel, consumption, and resource management, with a focus on long-term consequences. Social responsibility involves actively contributing to the well-being of communities worldwide, uplifting marginalized populations, promoting education, and improving living conditions.

Ethical global engagement is a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of the world, encouraging individuals to be agents of positive change. It aims to leave a legacy of compassion, fairness, and sustainability for future generations.

What hopes do you have for the future of international education?

In the future of international education, the focus is on ethical global engagement and meaningful travel. The goal is to move away from voluntourism towards sustainable, community-driven initiatives. This involves forming long-term partnerships with local communities to address real challenges and create lasting positive impacts.

Cultural sensitivity and respect are paramount, fostering understanding and enriching cultural exchange. Prioritizing safety and well-being is essential, with comprehensive support systems and proactive measures for all participants.

Ethical global engagement should guide international education, valuing diversity, human rights, and responsible addressing of social and environmental challenges. Programs should aim for a positive impact on participants, host communities, and the world.

In terms of travel, the vision is for individuals to approach new cultures with an open mind, engaging in local customs and understanding different perspectives, leading to more meaningful experiences. Ultimately, international education should empower individuals to be global citizens actively addressing global challenges, fostering empathy, cultural understanding, and ethical global engagement for a more interconnected, just, and sustainable world.